Italian women have proved themselves worthy mates and daughters of
the heroic sons and soldiers of Italy. To them is due the initiative
in the forming of several patriotic organizations, such as the "White
Cross," for the protection of little children, "The Sowers of Courage,"
and "The Smile to the Strong," formed for helping and encouraging the
fighting sons of Italy. Soldiers' huts have been erected and put in
charge of the members of an association known as "Soldiers' Mammas."
The members are women that have sons at the front, and may therefore be
expected to give affectionate and maternal care to the young soldiers.
There are other organizations, such as "The Mothers of Fallen Soldiers"
and "The Widows of the War," whose object is mutual help among the
women that have suffered the loss of son or husband.
Men who, because of advanced age, have been compelled to remain at
home, have not failed to take up the burden of assistance and relief.
Local committees have everywhere been formed under the name of
"_Assistenza Civile_." There is also the "_Segratariato del Popolo_,"
besides many others. All these societies are banded together to
assist the families of soldiers, to care for the mutilated, and to aid
wherever help is needed.
The Italian Government has enacted special laws for the benefit of
those stricken by the war. For instance, the Government furnishes shoes
below cost to Government employees earning less than four thousand
_lire_ per year (about $800).
[Illustration: TRAMWAY IN ROME